she’s found meaning
- Jade Teo
- Feb 5, 2021
- 2 min read
She’s found meaning in the work she’s done at Threads of Courage (ToC).
At 50, Mdm Tay (not her real name) is enthusiastic in learning new skills and even while she works part-time she’s pushing herself everyday.
It wasn’t always smooth sailing. Because by 2015, her husband’s health deteriorated. She had to care for him and her two sons, who were tackling their national exams at the time.
“I was exhausted.” she lamented, but Mdm Tay knew she couldn’t give up. “I still have my sons who depend on me. I have to be a good role model.”
Two years later, she joined ToC but it was another challenge she faced. This time though, it was an internal conflict. She didn’t have confidence in herself.
It would have been surprising to find out that she had been worried about having no experience with a sewing machine back then. However, Mdm Tay was a hard worker and managed to get the hang of things.
She’s gained so much since.
“I’m happy and assured about my skills when customers like my products.” Her handiwork encompasses many different types of handcrafted items, even a purple whale plushie which had been her first creation.
That’s just one aspect that Mdm Tay has been able to grow from. She also managed ToC booths; met and trained new participants; and shared her experience with interns.
“I’m proud after helping others.” she said. “I can relate to them because of the struggles I initially faced.”
Being at ToC has created a way for her to learn a tremendous amount of new skills and diligence. Though she initially hesitated in starting a new chapter in her life, Mdm Tay embraced it.
“I believe people should not give up. Without trying, you won’t know your abilities.” she expressed. “At least after trying, we wouldn’t feel any regrets.”
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